Ezekiel Elliot Suspended Six Games By NFL

McFadden could be the Cowboys' starter at some point this season, but it depends on Ezekiel Elliott's appeal of his six-game suspension. If the suspension holds up, Elliott wouldn't be eligible to play in the regular season until October 29 when the Cowboys play the Washington Redskins.

A source told ESPN's Adam Schefter Elliott is "ready for a long battle", with the National Football League as he looks to appeal his six-game ban.

Elliott can appeal the league's ruling.

"I recognize the distraction and disruption all of this has caused my family, friends, teammates, the Dallas Cowboys organization as well as my fans, for that I am sincerely sorry", the statement read. The hearing must take place within ten days of Elliott filing the appeal.

Jones has said all along that he felt there wasn't enough to justify a suspension of Elliott based on the evidence he reviewed on the domestic violence allegations made against Elliott in July 2016. "I admit that I am far from ideal, but I plan to continue to work very hard, on and off the field, to mature and earn the opportunity that I have been given".

Dallas will look to get familiar with the running backs they will start the season with.

The Cowboys are coming off an exceptional season, but will have to figure out a way to replace Elliott.

The 2016 National Football League rushing leader was suspended despite prosecutors in Columbus, Ohio, deciding a year ago not to pursue the case involving Elliott's girlfriend at the time in the same city where he starred for Ohio State.